Thomas W. Williams, III, 88

February 04, 2024

Thomas W. Williams, III, 88, of Lititz, PA, passed away on Sunday, February 4, 2024. Born in Pen Argyl, PA, to the late Emma (Bonser) and Thomas W. Williams, Jr. He was the beloved husband of the late Betty Lou (Hackman), who passed away in 1991 after celebrating 35 years of marriage.
Thomas was a man of diverse talents and passions. His educational journey included graduating from Pen Argyl Joint High School in 1953, Stevens College of Technology in 1956, and the National Institute BSA.

Throughout his life, Thomas was actively involved in various organizations. He served as a Red Cross Emergency Responder and was a Range Safety Officer for the American Rifle Association. In his professional career, he worked at Keener Tag Company, Wagaman Brothers Printers, and RR Donnelley Printing Company, where he dedicated 32 years before retirement. His commitment extended to the Boy Scouts of America, where he served as a District Scout Executive and was involved in various capacities, including Camp Director, Shooting Sports Director, and Medical Officer at the J. Edward Mack Scout Reservation for the PA Dutch Council.
Thomas received numerous awards for his contributions, showcasing his dedication to service. Outside of his professional and civic pursuits, he had a wide array of hobbies. Notably, he excelled in roller skating and achieved Best Finishes Regional Figure Skating Champion. His musical talents were showcased in his involvement with a Pipe Band, where he played percussion on snare drum and tenor drum. He also sang in a barbershop quartet and baritone with the Four Tradesmen, appearing on Ted Mack’s Amateur Hour in 1956.

Civically engaged, Thomas served as a Scout Master, Assistant District Commissioner, District Camping Chairman, Commissary Director, and more within the Boy Scouts of America. Additionally, he was a Master Mason of the 32nd degree, belonging to various Masonic organizations.

Thomas is survived by his children: Douglas T. (Helene) Williams of Lancaster, Don (Sharon) Williams of Southampton, PA, and Dee Ann Williams (companion of Timothy McMullen) of Elizabethtown. His companion, Karen M. Rineer, was an integral part of his life for 24 years. He leaves behind six grandchildren: Trevor Williams (Allison), Courtney Boyer (Ryan), Lauren Williams, Kelsey Williams, Christian Williams, Amanda Brown (companion of Zachary Brandt), Brett Brown (pre- deceased); great-grandchildren: Brogan Williams, Hadley Williams, Brinn Boyer, Blair Boyer and Zack Brandt. Extended family includes: Brian (Shelly) Geller, Nick (Yesenia), Drew and Ben Geller, Allison (Mitchell) Swords, McKinsey, Colin, Tanner and Teagan Swords , all of whom cherish his memory.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11 AM on Friday, February 9, 2024, at St. James Catholic Church, Woodcrest Avenue, Lititz, PA 17543. Family and friends will be received from 10 AM until the time of service. Interment will follow at Millport Union Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Boy Scouts of America, Pennsylvania Dutch Council.